Former Uruguay star Luis Suarez has launched a scathing critique of Marcelo Bielsa’s approach to coaching the national team, claiming that his methods have caused a rift within the squad. Suarez, who retired from international duty last month, suggested that the impact of Bielsa’s tactics runs so deep that some players are even contemplating quitting the team.
Speaking to DSports in an interview on Thursday, Luis Suarez—Uruguay’s all-time leading goal-scorer—pulled no punches when discussing the internal strife. He emphasized that the changes Bielsa has made since taking over as head coach last year have driven a wedge between players, damaging both morale and team unity.
“I ask the fans not to blame the players when things go wrong,” Luis Suarez urged. “The real problem is Bielsa’s approach—his training methods have divided the whole group.”
The Inter Miami forward revealed that the tensions are boiling over to the point where some players are unwilling to commit to the national side beyond the upcoming Copa America. “Some teammates told me they’re only playing in the Copa America and nothing else,” he added, hinting at a deeper sense of disillusionment among the squad.
Uruguay recently finished third at the Copa America in the United States, a result that Luis Suarez described as being accompanied by behind-the-scenes issues. He alluded to several incidents that he personally found troubling but chose to stay silent about during the tournament.
“We all know Bielsa doesn’t like dealing with experienced players or team leaders,” Luis Suarez said. “I stayed quiet out of respect for the national team and to keep the peace. The last thing I wanted was to add to the problem.”
One specific issue Luis Suarez highlighted was the treatment of midfielder Agustin Canobbio. According to Suarez, Canobbio was made to train as if he were merely a ball boy or spare player, despite being part of the 26-man squad selected for the Copa America.
Luis Suarez argued that a player on the Copa America squad should not be treated like a mere ‘sparring’ partner. “It’s frustrating. I understand Agustin’s feelings. I fully support him—he’s endured a lot.”
Beyond the tactical and individual criticisms, Suarez also painted a picture of a deteriorating atmosphere within the national team setup. He spoke of an environment where basic camaraderie has vanished, citing how even casual interactions have been stifled under Bielsa’s regime.
“The staff are not allowed to come in and greet us or share meals with us,” he lamented. “Some of the players even held a meeting, asking Bielsa to at least say good morning to them—but he didn’t even do that. It hurts to see what our national team has become.”
Suarez’s candid remarks shed light on growing internal discontent in Uruguay, raising concerns about the future of the national team under Bielsa’s leadership. For a squad that has long prided itself on unity and fighting spirit, such divisions could pose a significant challenge in the months to come, especially with the Copa America on the horizon.
